Czech PM, officials, react to possible Russian cooperation on US missile defense
Czech politicians - including the prime minister - have, on the whole, welcomed President Vladimir Putin's offer of possible cooperation by Russia with the US on missile defense. The offer was made by Mr Putin against the backdrop of the G8 summit on Thursday. The move came after weeks of strong rhetoric against the US and its planned defense programme by the Russian leader. While visiting Prague earlier this week, President George W. Bush invited the Russians to come in on the project.
In his offer, Mr Putin suggested the possible use of a Russian military base in Azerbaijan. Czech officials, while welcoming Russia's return to negotiations, have indicated that a base in Azerbaijan could complement but not replace planned US installations in Europe.